Goodwill urges people to take GED testing before 2014 changes

Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania is urging people who have already started testing for the GED credential, or are planning to do so in the near future, to complete the process before new GED tests are introduced next January.

“We don’t know for sure whether the new tests will seem more difficult for students,” said Judy Martier, director of education, assessment and training at Goodwill. “But it certainly makes sense for anyone who has already started the testing process or is just getting started to complete the current familiar tests before the end of 2013. If a high school equivalency certificate will help you meet your goals for employment or further education, act now, don’t wait.”

Beginning January 2, 2014, the new battery of GED tests will be available only on computer. Goodwill SWPA already offers computer based GED tests, which are the same as those currently offered on paper at other GED testing centers.

Individuals who have not taken any portion of the paper-based GED test since 2002 are eligible to take the tests now on computer at Goodwill.

Anyone who has not completed and passed the current tests by the end of 2013, either on paper or on computer, will have to start the testing process over again with the new battery of 2014 tests, only by computer.

In addition to computer-based testing, Goodwill also offers free adult education classes covering skills needed to pass the GED tests and to help people transition into jobs or post-secondary education. All candidates for the GED credential are welcome to take the test on computer at the Goodwill testing center regardless of whether they have taken the preparation classes through Goodwill.

Testing is available weekdays and can be scheduled through the website www.GEDcomputer.com.